The letter was written and submitted to the Council. Kano’s address must have made a deep impression, for he was informed in a private communication from Sanjo that his suggestion had been adopted, and orders had been issued to make the necessary preparations. At this time the fate of the foreigners in Japan hung by a thread.
Of all the clans of the Tokugawa family,--Iyeyasu had endowed his sons with ample estates,--all but Aidzu seemed as if stricken with palsy at the storm raging about them. But Aidzu, in its mountain home, had preserved its manhood, and despatched to Kyoto a man of penetration and dauntless courage. Shortly after taking command, the guards at the palace gates were quadrupled, and all ingress and egress prohibited, except under a most severe system of passports, obtained from the commandant himself.
On the 30th of September, 1863, Kano was sitting in his room overlooking the accounts of the clan, when Ito and Inouye entered hurriedly. There was no diminution of the salutations, and both waited until the Councillor spoke. Kano, however, saw at once that something important had occurred, and he simply requested them to speak.
“Your lordship,” said Ito, “there is something in the air. The commandant of the castle has issued orders to the people to close their houses and keep within, on penalty of being cut down. Armed patrols are in every street, and strong bodies of Aidzu men have taken up positions near the palace.” At this moment an officer of the guard at the gate entered, and beckoned to Kano, who rose angrily and demanded if he had forgotten his manners. His explanation, however, seemed to satisfy the Councillor, for he said: All right, and hurried out. Presently he returned accompanied by seven gentlemen, among whom Ito and Inouye recognized Sanjo and Iwakura.
Rigidly observant of the salutations the company was at last seated, when Karassu Maru remarked:
“Mr. Councillor, I hope Mori’s larder is well supplied, for I am afraid you are going to have us as your guests for some time.”
Kano bowed and calling a servant ordered dinner to be prepared, when Sanjo spoke.
“My lord Karassu Maru chooses an odd time for pleasantry, but I am afraid, Mr. Councillor, that there is more truth in what he says than can be agreeable to you or us. The Council has honored myself and the gentlemen with me, with a decree of banishment.”